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Why You Should Pick Bologna for Your Next Trip

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The Italian flag

When it comes to planning a trip, picking the right location is vital. Your trip can quickly go downhill if you don’t do research beforehand. However, one location has mesmerized people from around the globe for years, and it’s always a great place to visit. And that is Italy. You would be hard-pressed to find anyone who regrated visiting this wonderful country. But Italy is a big country that would take a long time to explore. So, we narrowed down our choice to one specific place, Bologna. When people visit Italy, they mainly focus on Rome and Florence and ignore so many other incredible parts of the country, which is a big shame. So we decided to share with you some good reasons to pick Bologna for your next trip.

A plate of pasta Bolognese
If you pick Bologna for your next trip, you will get to enjoy one of the best cuisines in the world

The food scene

When we talk about the best cuisines in the world, Italy is always on top of the list. And if you asked Italians what the area of Italy that is the center of the food scene is, they would all say the same. It is Bologna. Bologna is famous for its meat, cheese, soups, pastries, gelato, and pasta. And if you haven’t already guessed by its name, Bologna is also the birthplace of the world-famous Bolognese sauce. Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna area, famous for producing balsamic vinegar and parmesan cheese. So it is no wonder Bologna is so widely renowned in the world of food. Some of the dishes everyone who visits Bologna should try are:

  • Parmigiano Reggiano
  • Tagliatelle al Ragù Bolognese
  • Lasagne Verde al Forno

And the best part is that it is all very affordable. There are high-end restaurants that are more expensive, and then there are those affordable ones that also serve incredibly delicious food.

Fontana di Trevi
Places like Fontana di Trevi are always annoyingly crowded, but that’s not the case in Bologna

There will be fewer crowds

As we said previously, when people visit Italy, they mostly visit Rome, Florence, or Venice. And these cities are usually filled with tourists. I m sure you have at least once seen a picture of the crowds at Fontana di Trevi. And Rome is so famous that it is crowded almost all the time. Big crowds like that can take the joy out of a trip and leave you frustrated. Well, you won’t have to worry about that in Bologna. It is not as famous as Rome or Venice, so you can peacefully walk around the city and enjoy the experience. You won’t have to run to get tickets to museums or make restaurant reservations, so some other tourists don’t take it before you. Also, the locals will be a bit more friendly and welcoming than in Rome, for example, because tourists are not crowding their city and making their traffic more difficult.

It’s cheaper than other European cities

Budget plays a significant role when planning a trip. You must carefully research how expensive a city is before you travel there; otherwise, you can end up in an awkward situation. Thankfully Bologna is a very affordable city compared to others in Europe like Paris, Madrid, or even Rome. Food is affordable, and so is housing. It’s also a very walkable city so you won’t need much money for transport. This makes Bologna a perfect destination for a longer trip. An average-income person can afford to stay here for a couple of weeks without it obliterating their budget. And because it is so cheap, you will have enough money to finance renting storage while traveling to keep your valuables safe. Don’t underestimate the importance of budgeting when planning a trip like this.

Pick Bologna for your next trip and explore its many museums

When you visit Bologna, you won’t only get to eat amazing world-class food but also have a great learning experience in Bologna’s many museums. It’s not a big city, but it has rich history and culture that is celebrated in these museums. Let’s start with Museo Della Storia di Bologna (Museum of the history of Bologna). This museum tells the story of Bologna that spans many years to the Etruscan era. In this museum, you will learn how Bologna changed and flourished over the years. And it will be easy as the exhibits in the museum are set up in chronological order. There will be classical museum exhibits and also some fun interactive ones. You will have a very helpful guide as well. Then there is Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna ( The National Art Gallery of Bologna), where passionate art lovers can see paintings from the 13th to 18th century period by famous artists.

It’s a beautiful place

Even if there wasn’t an incredible food scene and museums filled with amazing works of art, there would still be one reason good enough to visit Bologna. And that is the fact that it is an incredibly beautiful place. There is an interesting mix of rolling hills and beautiful gardens with impressive architectural sights that make Bologna a must-see destination. You can visit the Park of Villa Ghigi or Giardini Margherita, the largest city park in Bologna. On the other hand, you can see Teatro Anatomico, Fontano del Nettuno, and Basilica di San Petronio. This mix of nature and architecture gives Bologna a special kind of charm that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Woman with a suitcase
Pick Bologna for your next trip and have the time of your life

In conclusion

These are just some of the reasons you should pick Bologna for your next trip. But there is so much more. Bologna is a good destination for a fun family holiday, a celebratory weekend with friends, a solo trip, or a romantic getaway for couples. You will enjoy amazing food, nature, culture, art, and impressive architecture. And the great thing is it will all be affordable. As you can see, there is something for everyone in Bologna, and you won’t regret visiting it. Now, all that is left to do is book those plane tickets and get ready for an Italian adventure!!

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8 common travel myths that are wrong

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A man with a backpack ready to travel
Photo by Archie Binamira on Pexels.com

In 2020, the COVID-19 virus pandemic became a part of our reality. False information about the coronavirus can spread even faster than the virus itself. Almost every day, new myths are born and spread online in the blink of an eye – amongst them you will find plenty of common travel myths. With the right precaution measures, life must continue, as well as economic growth, so join us as we debunk some of these urban legends.

Time to move forward with our lives and our habits

The travel industry, much like every other industry, will persevere, though it too will need to adapt. With this article of 8 common travel myths, we will help you recognize false information about the virus. We’ll give you the knowledge you need to feel comfortable traveling again, safely, both for business and pleasure. 

Myth #1: If you’re traveling during this pandemic, you’re almost guaranteed to “catch” the virus

Fact: As long as you’re acting responsibly, taking the necessary precautions, and following the official instructions of the place(s) you’re in – your chances of catching the virus are minimal. The risk will of course always be there, but there’s a lot you can do to reduce the chances greatly.

Myth #2: All tourist attractions are closed due to the pandemic

Fact: In many cases, quite the opposite is true. With many people choosing to avoid traveling altogether, some of the places which are typically packed are now inviting visitors to explore them free from the usual crowd and noise. Neat discounts can be found too.

Myth #3: When traveling, wear a mask only indoors

Fact: You should wear your mask outdoors if you are visiting crowded places, parks, and public gatherings. You will protect others that way in case that you unknowingly have the virus, and vice-versa.

Hands holding a mask on a globe
Travel safely – wear your face mask to protect yourself and others

Myth #4: The COVID-19 virus cannot be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climates or extremely cold climates

Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support that claim. While some viruses (like the flu) have their “seasons” depending on the climate, many others are not so easily affected by external temperature. What we do know so far is that Covid-19 has spread to nearly all countries in the world, regardless of their environment. Don’t count on the weather keeping you safe – keep yourself safe instead.

Myth #5: Airports and airplanes are dangerous, and the risk of infection there is high

This is among the most common travel myths, yet also happens to be among the least true. Every airline company and every airport in the world is constantly working on improving safety measures to protect their employees as well as every single passenger.

Fact 1: Due to the circulation and advanced air filtration systems on airplanes, the risk for virus transmission is very low. Did you know there is a complete changeover of air every two to three minutes in an airplane? Of course, you still must take care of hand hygiene and respect all protocols.  

An airport waiting area
All airports are employing physical distancing measures

Fact 2: Airports have UV cleaning technology, enhanced sanitization, and many contactless solutions for all needed procedures. Wear a mask and maintain physical distance as required. Airport staff will take your temperature and hand sanitizers will be available everywhere around you. Onboard announcements will remind you of the necessary protocols.

Myth #6: Travel insurance will not cover medical expenses in case you get infected in a foreign country. It will cost you a lot,  better not to travel at all.

Fact: Most major insurance companies are updating their travel insurance policies to cover a part or all of the costs if you get infected abroad. Ask your insurance provider to explain your rights and responsibilities regarding travel insurance. The most important thing (now more than ever) is to keep yourself healthy, physically as well as mentally. Don’t neglect your physical shape – exercise, and spend time outside in fresh air.

Myth #7: When traveling, restaurants and street food should be avoided – you should prepare your own food

Fact: Hygiene measures are always important wherever and however you choose to eat. If you enjoy preparing your own food even while traveling – go for it! But if you’re only doing it to avoid restaurants out of fear, think again. Restaurants and fast food joints have tons of rules and protocols they need to follow, especially now – they’d be out of business otherwise. Common logic still applies, so before ordering a meal or grabbing some street food, make sure the place looks clean and maintained and that all precautions are taken.

Myth #8: Travel will never be the same, coronavirus will destroy tourism industries

Fact: Freedom to travel is a crucial part and a key driver in the international post-pandemic recovery. Tourism will survive. Firstly, for economic reasons and secondly because of the unique joy of travel itself. There are numerous innovations and automation in travel procedures which are making travel easier, safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.

The impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry is enormous, but every possible step is taken so that you can travel again while staying safe and protected.

Airline companies are now giving more affordable rates and more flexible fares than ever, to encourage people to travel again. They will offer you more flight change possibilities than before (even for free). Along with that, they offer refund possibilities if your plans change due to the impact of the virus, or vouchers for future travel. Even bus and train tickets are offered with many flexible solutions – so don’t hesitate to explore the conditions, and do not be afraid to ask questions before buying them.

After debunking common travel myths- pack your bags and go, the world awaits you 

With all this in mind, traveling now may feel safer than going to your local food store or partaking in any other daily activity. The air in a plane is probably cleaner than the one circulating in your office. Airplanes are usually cleaner than our own living space, as they are constantly and thoroughly cleaned with enhanced solutions – even before COVID-19.

If you’re still wondering whether it is the right time to travel again, remember this: the desire to travel is in our DNA and that can never change! Tourism can’t be stopped. Travel can’t be stopped. You, dear reader – can’t be stopped.

Signpost on the road
Traveling will help you relax and reduce stress

As the world opens for you again, you will also be more open to the world! Traveling will help you relax, reduce stress, and make unforgettable memories. You’ll have fun, see and do something new, strengthen relationships, learn more, grow, and eventually improve your life. So don’t be afraid to get out there!

6 Steps to Create High-Impact Restaurant Photographs

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When running a restaurant, one of the essential aspects of promoting and marketing the business involves choosing what photographs to use. A high-impact image can engage the senses, making the viewer see, smell, feel and even taste the food without having been able to try it yet.

A professional food photographer can accomplish these, and more. Hiring the top experts in food styling and photography is key to generating appetizing images for your restaurant website and other marketing materials.

It takes years of experience to produce quality food images. To help you understand how the experts pull it off, here are a few steps detailing how they create tantalizing restaurant food photography.

High-Impact Restaurant Photographs

1. Gather the equipment

The tools used vary depending on the project. More often than not, you may find food stylists and photographers armed with more than just cameras and the dishes themselves.

When it comes to food photography, the aim is to make the dish as irresistible as possible. This often involves using techniques that focus on making the dish look good and deliciously tempting even when the food prop has been sitting out for an hour because of the shoot.

For instance, stylists may brush oil over the ingredients to make them glisten. Scoops of ice cream are replaced by mashed potatoes or shortening as they don’t melt under the light. As such, you may notice food stylists armed with brushes, toothpicks and other tools designed to make the dish look fuller and fresh.

2. Use natural light

Natural light has a way of making dishes look fresh and appetizing. As such, photographers will often schedule the shoot during the day. Plates, silver and other dining elements are shot outdoors or near a window to make the most of the natural light available.

At times, photographers will use flash and reflectors. When bounced off a wall or the ceiling, the light from the flash will provide additional light and soften any harsh shadows.

High-Impact Restaurant Photographs

3. Use props

Although the dish should be the focus of any image, at times, stylists and food photographers will add additional relevant elements to put the dish into context.

For instance, an image of a slice of cheesecake may include a fork and may be accompanied with a cup of tea or coffee and some small condiments. Peppercorns and herbs may be sprinkled all over a chopping board that features a large slab of grilled meat.

It is important to strike a balance between context and clutter. A few extra elements may help but there is no need to fill the photo with food or other objects.

Stylists and photographers also need to be aware of the colors and textures of the elements and props being included in the image. Contrasting colors and textures can help make ingredients pop out more.

Props need to be carefully inspected before being used in the image because the slightest imperfection will be magnified in the photo. Plates and utensils need to be spotlessly clean while the ingredients should look fresh and devoid of any blemishes.

4. Shoot from different angles

Perspective can change how the viewer may feel about the dish. Professional photographers will often try to take as many shots from different angles as they can for a single shoot.

A shot taken from directly above the dish can be used to include ingredients and other relevant elements. This type of shot illustrates what goes into the dish.

High-Impact Restaurant Photographs

On the other hand, a shot taken from the side can show how the dish would look when served. For instance, a shot of a slice of cake taken from an angle can show the different layers inside.

5. Shoot quickly

Stylists and photographers need to plan, experiment and practice the shots days before the actual day of the shoot. Unlike studio lighting, natural light changes depending on the time of the day and weather.

The look of ingredients and even entire dishes can also change in just a few hours, minutes or even seconds. Vegetables are an example. To make them look fresher, they are often undercooked.

When it comes to salads, the dressing can be put in a small bowl on the side. This is to prevent the dressing from covering the ingredients or making them look limp.

By practicing and experimenting with different angles outside the shoot, the team can also determine what they need to bring and how to set up the shot quickly. This is especially important in cases where several dishes need to be styled and photographed in one session.

If you’re taking a specialty burger photo, taking an angle shot from the side would be preferable to one taken from above as the side shot would highlight the burger patty itself while a shot from the top would have to accommodate other elements such as the sides, utensils, etc., else, you’ll be left only with the image of the top (sesame seed) bun.

 

6. Add steam

With the exception of desserts and other dishes served cold, steam is a popular element that can be added to an image. Steam emanating from the food gives it the impression that it just came off the stove, oven or grill.

Natural steam is difficult to produce. Most foods do not produce enough steam to be captured by the camera. Plus, food can get cold quickly, reducing the amount of time when the photographer can take the shot.

Food photographers and stylists need to be creative with steam, with some resorting to using garment steamers and microwaved sponges or cotton balls, or devising even more inventive ways to create it for their shoots.

Experienced stylists and photographers have several other techniques that they use to produce stunning food images. With this guide, you have a basic idea of the amount of work and effort it takes to create stunning and delectable food photographs.

 

AUTHOR BIO

Barry Morgan is the creative force behind Barry Morgan Photography. His passions are photography, food and family, although not always in that order. He believes you should love what you do, to do exceptional work. Cooking was always a family affair in his home so naturally, once his passion for photography took root, he was drawn to food photography. Barry Morgan Photography now works with hundreds of clients, turning their tasty dishes into mouthwatering visuals.